Regina Berna

Chickasaw Nation Division of History and Culture employee Regina Berna was recently named Director of the Museums and Historic Sites for the Chickasaw Nation.

“I’ve worked hard for this,” she said. “It was a lot of work, but I love it.”

Mrs. Berna began her career at the tribe in 1999, working in the gift shop at the Chickasaw Nation Capitol Building in Tishomingo, Okla.

Her responsibilities now include overseeing the operation of Chickasaw Nation historical and cultural sites including the Capitol building, Council House Museum and the Chickasaw White House.

“I am lucky to have her on board,” said Dr. Amanda Cobb-Greetham, administrator of the tribal Division of History and Culture. “She is a down-to-earth, dedicated employee with a deep commitment to Chickasaw history and culture and to Chickasaw citizens.”

Mrs. Berna said she had always been extremely interested in the history of the Chickasaw Nation.

“I love that I get to research the history of my ancestors,” she said. “I’ve learned about everything from government to culture and all about the boarding schools and aspects of the past.”

Pursuing her business management degree, Mrs. Berna is enrolled in University of Phoenix online classes.

She is also actively involved in the Chickasaw Nation Masters/ Apprentice language program.

“It’s very important to me to learn the language,” she said.

Mrs. Berna’s grandfather, original enrollee Fred Cravatt, wasn’t allowed to use the language frequently during his youth. She believes she is honoring her grandfather by learning to speak Chickasaw.

In her spare time, Mrs. Berna enjoys basket weaving and beading.

“I would love to be able to make beaded stomp dance belts,” she said. “That’s the goal I’m working toward right now.”

Mrs. Berna and her husband, Randy live in Tishomingo and have three children and four grandchildren.